Argentina Triumphs Over Canada 2-0 in Copa America Semifinal

Top-ranked Argentina showcased their prowess with a 2-0 victory over Canada in the Copa America semifinal on Tuesday, thanks to goals from Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez. The match, held at MetLife Stadium, highlighted Argentina’s dominance and technical superiority, solidifying their place in the tournament’s final.

Despite the loss, 48th-ranked Canada delivered a spirited performance before a lively crowd of 80,102, braving the hot and humid night at the NFL stadium, which is also set to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

Match Highlights:

• Argentina’s Goals: Julian Alvarez opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, and Lionel Messi doubled the lead in the 51st minute.
• Canadian Effort: Canada, although unable to convert their chances, showed determination and resilience throughout the match.
• Controversial Moments: Canadian coach Jesse Marsch expressed frustration over the officiating, receiving a caution in the 77th minute.

Argentina demonstrated their class early on, with Julian Alvarez netting the first goal after a precise long pass from Rodrigo De Paul. Alvarez’s skillful control and finish through goalkeeper Max Crepeau’s legs left Canada trailing. The goal, however, was marred by controversy as Canadian coach Jesse Marsch argued for a foul on Richie Laryea by Argentina’s Nicolas Tagliafico, which was not called by Chilean referee Piero Maza.

Lionel Messi, making his mark yet again, redirected an Enzo Fernandez shot in the 51st minute, navigating through a crowded Canadian defense to score his first goal of the tournament and 14th in his Copa America career. The goal was confirmed after a video review for offside.

Argentina will face either No. 12 Colombia or No. 14 Uruguay in the championship game on Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. Messi praised his team’s consistent performance, stating, “It’s insane what this team has done, what the Argentina national team is doing. For those who remain from the old guard, it’s beyond impressive that the national team is in another final.”

Canada will compete for third place against the loser of the Colombia-Uruguay match on Saturday at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.

The crowd at MetLife Stadium was predominantly clad in Argentina’s blue, creating an electric atmosphere. Despite the strong support for Argentina, pockets of red-clad Canadian fans added to the vibrant environment, reflecting the growing passion for soccer in both nations.

This victory echoes Argentina’s previous successes against Canada, including a 2-0 win in their tournament opener on June 20th in Atlanta and a 5-0 thrashing in a 2010 friendly match in Buenos Aires.

Argentina’s victory over Canada not only advances them to the Copa America final but also highlights their enduring football legacy. With Messi leading the charge, the South American giants continue to set the standard on the international stage. Meanwhile, Canada’s valiant efforts signal a bright future for their soccer aspirations.